California Watermelon Tourmaline and Rock Crystal Quartz Bonbonnière by Hans Ulrich Pauly


Idar-Oberstein, GermanyThe body of the box and lid are formed of nearly optically clear rock crystal quartz, carved and fluted and imitating the outline of the original crystal. The top bears an applied decoration carved from a San Diego watermelon tourmaline, depicting a portrait of a Native America Chief in full regalia. The center is a deep violet graduating to pink and green at the edges seen beneath his feathers. Inscribed H.U. Pauly. Length 4 1/2in (11.4cm)
|Provenance: Purchased from Bonhams & Butterfields, Los Angeles, Natural History, June 22, 2008, Sale 16089, Lot 4256.Hans Ulrich PaulyThere is a special quality to the carvings of Hans-Ulrich Pauly. A self-proclaimed Transcendentalist, within each of his carvings is apparent a loving appreciation of the Earth's creations regardless of the subject—plants, animals, people, or free-flowing forms. In his own words "Art is like a religion for me - the Latin word 'religio' means connection with God". Living in Idar-Oberstein, Germany, the "Gemstone Capital of Europe", Hans-Ulrich Pauly has access to the world's finest gem material. Carefully chosen for color and quality, each stone is meticulously formed and engraved to combine dynamic design with the uniqueness of the gemstone itself. Within his workshop one finds a wide variety of precious stone engravings. His art ranges from contemporary cameos and portrait carvings to three-dimensional sculptures that are captivatingly alive through their wonderfully crafted, exacting detail. Along with his work in precious stones, Hans-Ulrich Pauly has developed a reputation as a sculptor of life-size bronzes. Upon a visit to Idar-Oberstein one can see that many of the fountains and town monuments are attributed to him.